When Susan’s mother was terminally ill, her doctors recommended hospice care. They explained that hospice care could keep her mom comfortable and even improve her quality of life. It would allow her to stay at home instead of a hospital, supported by a compassionate team of caregivers.
But Susan still had questions. How would she choose the right hospice provider – one she could trust with her mother’s care, one that truly understood what their family was going through?
These are important questions. As awareness of hospice care grows, more families are asking them. Hospice can ease suffering and being peace to both patients and their loved ones during the final stages of life, when it matters most.
This article outlines what to look for when choosing a hospice provider and the key questions to ask.
32 questions to ask when choosing a hospice provider
Here are important questions to ask any hospice organization you’re considering:
- Is the hospice not-for-profit? According to Medicare, more than half of U.S. hospice programs are for-profit. Recent reports have revealed problems at some of those for-profit hospice programs. A hospice’s mission and priorities can differ depending on whether it is for-profit or not-for-profit.
- How many years has the hospice been in operation? Look for an organization with twenty or more years of experience.
- Is the hospice certified by Medicare? Medicare certification ensures that services meet federal standards and that costs for eligible patients may be covered, including medication, medical supplies, and grief support.
- Are hospice-certified nurses and doctors available 24/7? Around-the-clock access is essential, especially during medical or emotional crises.
- Does the hospice provide palliative care services? These services can alleviate symptoms, even if the person isn’t ready for hospice yet.
- Does the hospice have an inpatient unit? If symptoms can’t be managed at home, an inpatient unit can provide 24/7 care in a comfortable, home-like setting.
- Can the hospice provide care in nursing homes and assisted living facilities? Some hospices may only serve patients at home.
- Has the hospice been surveyed by a state or federal agency in the last five years? Ask about any deficiencies found during the most recent survey, and whether they’ve been corrected.
- Is the hospice accredited by a national organization? Accreditation by groups like The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) shows a commitment to meeting high quality standards.
- Is the hospice licensed by the state?
- Are hospice services covered by insurance? Ask what’s covered by Medicare or private insurance, and whether any services require out-of-pocket payments.
- Does the hospice conduct family satisfaction surveys? Many hospices ask families to provide feedback after a loved one’s passing. Ask to see the most recent results.
- What services do volunteers provide, and how are they matched to families? Volunteers can help with companionship, errands, and emotional support.
- What kind of training do volunteers receive? Volunteers must receive training to prepare them for hospice work.
- How quickly can staff respond to emergencies at night or on weekends? Will someone come to the home during a crisis, and who will it be — a nurse, social worker, doctor, or chaplain?
- Which hospitals and nursing homes does the hospice work with? If your loved one is hospitalized or transferred, you’ll want hospice services to continue seamlessly.
- What extra services are available beyond basic hospice care? Some hospices like Samaritan offer complementary therapies, tailored programs for children, veterans, or those with specific diseases.
- How quickly can a patient be admitted to the program? Can admission happen at night or on weekends?
- Is the hospice a “We Honor Veterans” partner? This designation reflects a commitment to specialized care for veterans.
- Who manages the hospice? Is it locally based or part of a larger, out-of-state organization?
- Does the hospice serve your area? Be sure your community is within their coverage zone.
- Will the hospice provide care regardless of ability to pay? Ask about financial assistance or charity care policies.
- How flexible is the hospice in creating personalized care plans? A good hospice will tailor services to match the unique needs and wishes of the patient and family.
- Does the hospice employ a full-time medical director? Leadership by a medical director ensures quality oversight of all care.
- How are staff trained and supervised? Ask about initial training, ongoing education, and performance standards.
- How are family caregivers supported? Will you receive training to care for your loved one? Is respite care available to give you a break?
- How are families prepared for the dying process? Does the hospice provide guidance on what to expect, and support after the patient’s passing?
- How does the hospice work with the patient’s personal physician? Can your doctor remain involved after hospice care begins?
- How is comfort and pain managed? Ask how often pain is assessed, and how quickly medications or care plans are adjusted.
- How does the hospice meet emotional and spiritual needs?
- What bereavement support is provided? How long does grief support last, and what does it include? needs?
- Can the hospice provide references or testimonials? Speak with families who have used their services to get a real sense of care quality, including responsiveness on nights and weekends.
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Got Questions about hospice and palliative care? Get answers now.
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Many people don’t realize they’re eligible for hospice care much earlier than expected — often up to six months before death for Medicare recipients. A physician can help determine when someone qualifies, and research shows that starting hospice early can improve quality of life and even extend it.
In fact, more than 1.7 million Americans receive hospice services each year, most often in the comfort of their own homes, assisted living communities, or nursing facilities. This home-based approach gives families more time together and greater involvement in their loved one’s care.
Because there are now over 5,300 hospice programs in the U.S., the quality and scope of services can vary widely. That’s why it’s best to start your search before a crisis hits, when you have the time and clarity to find the right fit.
A good hospice provider can offer expert pain management, emotional and spiritual support, and a care team that truly listens. So be sure to do your homework. Ask for recommendations, read reviews, and speak with several providers. The right care can make all the difference during life’s most challenging moments.
Contact Samaritan for hospice services in South Jersey
If you have any questions, Samaritan is an experienced hospice provider in South Jersey. Call us at (856) 596-1600 or contact us online. Our expert team is here to help.